Ramadan,聽the holiest month for Muslims, starts this evening (Feb. 17, 2026). Why is Ramadan so sacred and what does it mean to Muslims? Ramadan is special because it is the month in which the Qur鈥檃n was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah, which makes it is a meaningful time for Muslims seek to live in a holier way and draw closer to Allah. This festival encompasses many rich spiritual concepts and practices.
One part of Ramadan is fasting from food while the sun is up, but it's also a time to fast from anger, gossip, dishonesty, or other habits that can detract from spirituality. There is also a focus on seeking divine inspiration and guidance and observants spend extra time reflecting on scripture. Ramadan also celebrates Allah's goodness and mercy; it's a time when faith that mistakes can be forgiven and overcome is strengthened. Prayer is very important and often experienced as more powerful during this time. The last ten nights are especially sacred. Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power) is the holiest night of the year for Muslims because it is when the first verses of the sacred book were revealed.
Ramadan offers many spiritual and other benefits. It can strengthen intentions and self-discipline, mindfulness of and connection to Allah, foster gratitude and compassion for others, build community ties, and help observants deepen their spirituality. Overall, it's a reset button that renews people in their faith and their lives. Ramadan Mubarak to all who are celebrating!
Lunar New Year聽also starts today and is a 15-day festival. For many observants, this holiday features animals as part of a 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle based on ancient astronomy and folklore. The animals鈥擱at, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig鈥攁re those that finished a mythical race organized by the Jade Emperor. Each animal brings certain strengths. This year is the Year of the Horse, which is hardworking, warm-hearted, and independent. The timing of the holiday is determined by the lunisolar calendar, with the new year beginning during the first new moon after the winter solstice. This first day after the new (dark) moon, which is when the moon is not visible in the sky, is considered a rebirth for the moon and thus an appropriate time to mark new beginnings.
Lunar New Year is celebrated in China, Vietnam, South Korea, North Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Mongolia, Thailand as well as elsewhere in Asia and around the world by both Buddhists and people of other spiritual backgrounds. This is a major holiday and a very important time to gather, celebrate and enjoy traditions with family. There is often a family dinner when parents and children and extended family gather together and eat foods that symbolically welcome in an abundant, healthy and prosperous new year. Observants often wear new clothes, play games with family, decorate with red, gift red envelopes with money to children, have deep cleaning traditions, and enjoy performances and fireworks. Happy Lunar New Year, 成人VR视频 students!
